Up North Wedding on Walloon Lake | V & J
When it comes to finding the perfect wedding venue, it’s not always about the latest trend or grand ballroom—it’s about what feels right, what feels like home. For V and J, Northern Michigan was that place. J had always dreamt of getting married “up north,” and once V stepped into St. Francis Xavier Church, she knew it was the perfect spot. The gothic architecture, the rich wood, and the stained glass gave the space a sense of history, romance, and peace—everything V had envisioned for their nuptial mass. And when it came to the reception, the setting off Walloon Lake checked all the boxes. It was the outdoor celebration they’d both hoped for, far from the typical ballroom, surrounded by the beauty of nature and their favorite people.
The morning of the wedding was filled with excitement. V, too excited to sleep more than a few hours, was up early, soaking in the day. What stands out in her memory is the calm she felt despite the whirlwind ahead. Praying the rosary with her mom over coffee, writing a heartfelt letter to J, and watching her sister get ready—all of these moments filled her with gratitude and love. It wasn’t until the drive to the church that the nerves hit, but it was the kind of anticipation that reminds you just how big and beautiful the moment is about to be.
For V, the standout moment of the day was seeing J standing at the altar. All the nerves disappeared, and she couldn’t wait to get to him. Throughout the ceremony, she was struck by the power of their vows, the significance of the promises they made to each other, and the overwhelming sense of love filling the church. It was a moment she’ll never forget. J getting emotional during the vows is something that still makes her smile. And let’s not forget the hilarity of their car refusing to start during their lap around the block—a small hiccup that became an unforgettable memory.
Their reception off Walloon Lake was just as magical. The heartfelt speeches from their siblings brought tears and laughter to the room, and dancing the night away—especially to One Direction—was a highlight for both of them. But one of V’s favorite moments was sneaking away with J to take photos by the lake. It gave them a few quiet minutes to hold each other, reflect on the day so far, and transition into the evening’s celebration.
V’s advice to future couples? Keep things simple. Having a small wedding party with just their siblings made the day more intimate and special. And as they were advised, they made sure to savor every moment of their ceremony. Whether it was admiring the flowers, listening closely to the homily, or taking in the sight of their loved ones gathered in the pews, they were fully present. Writing letters to each other on the morning of the wedding also helped center them in the day, a tradition they’ll always cherish.
For V and J, their wedding wasn’t just about the big moments—it was about the small, quiet ones, too. It was a celebration of love, family, and the place that felt like home.
Bride’s Dress Designer: Madi Lane | Bride’s Dress Boutique: Palm Bridal | Bride’s Shoes: Gucci | Bride and Groom’s Rings: Hufford’s Jewelry | Groom’s Suit: Woody’s Mens Shop | Bridesmaid’s Dresses: BHLDN from Anthropologie | Groomsmen’s Suits: Woody’s Mens Shop | Preparation, Ceremony, and Reception Location and Caterer: Village Suites Bay Harbor, St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church Petoskey, Walloon Lake Country Club | Hair and Makeup Artists: Hannah Howe | Florist: Monarch Florist | Dessert: Simply Sweet by Jessica | Officiant: Fr. Greg McCallum assisted by Fr. Glen Szczechowski | Band: Mark Dantzer | Invitations: On Paper | Transportation: 1925 Cole Motor Car and Blue Lakes Charters and Tours
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